The Iowa Department of Natural Resources said it is investigating after a bald eagle was found shot and dismembered near Des Moines.

The bald eagle was found at Yellow Banks County Park, near the Des Moines River, and was reported by a hiker Wednesday, according to the Iowa DNR.

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In addition to being shot, the Iowa DNR reported that the bald eagle had its head and talons removed.

Bald eagles are a state and federally protected species.

The Iowa DNR said it is searching for the person or persons responsible.

“We don’t have much to go on, so we need some help. If anyone saw or heard shots in this area during the first two weeks of the year, we would like to know about it,” said State Conservation Officer Nate Anderson. “It’s hard to estimate how long the eagle has been dead due to the warmer temperatures and the state of the eagle’s remains.”

Anderson said people can use the Turn in Poachers website at www.iowadnr.gov/tip or by calling the hotline at 1-800-532-2020. Information can be left anonymous.